Is Lane Splitting Legal in Indiana?

Motorcycle riding offers freedom on the road, but it comes with responsibilities and rules that every rider needs to understand. One topic that sparks frequent discussion is lane splitting. If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Is lane splitting legal in Indiana?“—the answer is NO. Indiana traffic laws prohibit splitting lanes on a motorcycle in the state. Read on for more information on lane splitting in this guide compiled by our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers.

What Is Lane Splitting?

Motorcycle lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of stopped traffic or slow-moving traffic. Many motorcycle riders use this technique to bypass congestion, save time, and avoid sitting in long traffic jams. It can be risky and potentially unsafe when motorcycles split lanes, especially in states where other drivers aren’t accustomed to the practice.

Rules for Motorcyclists: Lane Sharing, Lane Splitting, Lane Filtering, and Shoulder Surfing

Lane Sharing

Side-by-side motorcycle riding in the same marked lanes is lane sharing. This is LEGAL in Indiana and can help riders stay visible and safer in traffic.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting happens when a motorcycle moves between lanes of slow or stopped vehicles, traveling in the same direction. Such a maneuver is ILLEGAL in Indiana.

Lane Filtering

Lane filtering refers to a motorcycle moving between two vehicles to move to the front of traffic at a signal or intersection. Lane filtering is ILLEGAL in Indiana.

Shoulder Surfing

Shoulder surfing means riding a motorcycle on the road’s shoulder to pass other traffic. This maneuver is ILLEGAL in Indiana.

Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Indiana?

In Indiana, a motorcycle splitting lanes is explicitly prohibited under Indiana Code § 9-21-10-6, which requires all vehicles (including motorcycles) to occupy a full lane and prohibits passing between vehicles in the same lane. This law ensures that each vehicle has full access to its designated lane, prioritizing motorcycle safety and minimizing the risk of lane splitting accidents.

What Are the Penalties for Lane Splitting in Indiana?

By law, a motorcyclist lane splitting in Indiana faces penalties ranging from a Class C infraction to more severe charges if the lane splitting accident causes harm. If the accident happened while lane splitting, consequences can escalate based on the severity of resulting injuries and vehicle repair costs.

Where Is Lane Splitting Legal?

Lane splitting laws vary across the United States. While Indiana prohibits it, states like California and Minnesota explicitly allow it. Other states, like Arizona and Colorado, permit variations of lane splitting. Many states remain silent, leaving the practice neither explicitly allowed nor prohibited.

Factors States May Evaluate When Considering Legalizing Lane Splitting

Lawmakers consider the pros and cons of lane splitting and lane filtering laws.

When motorcyclists lane split, there are multiple benefits, including reduced traffic congestion, smoother traffic flow, and shorter commute times—as motorcyclists can navigate through congested areas more efficiently. It may also lower pollution levels by minimizing idling times and speeding up commutes. Additionally, a UC Berkeley study found that careful lane splitting can improve rider safety by lowering the risk of rear-end collisions in stop-and-go or stationary traffic.

Lane splitting raises several safety concerns, including the risk of a motorcycle accident caused by side-swiping or collisions with other vehicles. Other drivers who are unfamiliar with lane splitting may react unpredictably, increasing the danger of motorcycle accidents. Legalizing it could also complicate traffic enforcement, requiring additional training and clearer regulations. Additionally, some drivers may view lane splitting as unsafe or unfair, potentially leading to increased road tension.